Results of a study of socio-environmental risk factors affecting the development of diseases among students

Background. To improve the effectiveness of measures to strengthen public health and prolong working life, it is necessary to systematically study the lifestyle of students as the future reproductive and economic potential of the country. Studying the socio-environmental risk factors that affect the development of diseases among students is essential for developing preventive measures to maintain and improve health. The obtained data on socio-environmental risk factors for the development of chronic non-communicable diseases should be taken into account when implementing corporate medical and preventive measures and developing individual programs for promoting a healthy lifestyle. Aims — to study the social and environmental risk factors that affect the development of diseases among students. Methods. In the Udmurt Republic, on the basis of the Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education “Izhevsk State Medical Academy” of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, a study was conducted on the risk factors for the development of diseases among students using a questionnaire survey. A total of 351 students from the 5th and 6th years of the medical, pediatric, and dental faculties were surveyed, with a majority of female students (76.1%, 267) and male students (23.9%, 84) aged between 21 and 30 years. Results. Today’s youth is characterized by a high level of exposure to socio-related risk factors, which can lead to the development of chronic non-communicable diseases. Two-thirds of the respondents were satisfied with their living conditions, while less than half were satisfied with the environmental conditions. One-third of the respondents reported a lack of opportunities for physical activity and sports. Two-thirds of the respondents showed no interest in any leisure activities and did not see the need for health-promoting behaviors, despite being future healthcare professionals who play a crucial role in shaping healthy lifestyle habits among the population. Conclusions. The study showed the need to train specialists in higher medical educational institutions, along with teaching professional skills and abilities, to teach them the values of preserving their own health. It is necessary to monitor the social and environmental risk factors among students on a regular basis and to develop measures to promote healthy behavior.